Former Ivorian striker Wilfried Bony believes African football is on the brink of achieving its ultimate dream u— winning the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the growing strength of African nations on the global stage, Bony said the gap between Africa and traditional football powers has narrowed significantly, largely due to the exposure African players now receive in Europe’s top leagues.
“Africa is very close to winning the World Cup,” Bony said. “Most African players are already playing in Europe and learning the same tactics, systems and discipline as players from other continents.”
The former Manchester City and Swansea City forward explained that the modern African footballer is no longer at a disadvantage in terms of tactical awareness or technical quality.
“We all train the same way now,” he noted. “We face the same opponents, the same coaches, the same pressure. The difference is no longer quality — it’s mentality.”
Bony stressed that belief, focus and mental strength will be decisive if an African team is to finally lift football’s biggest trophy.
“It’s about mindset and confidence,” he added. “Once an African team truly believes it belongs at the very top, everything becomes possible.”
Africa has come increasingly close in recent tournaments, with nations like Morocco reaching the semi-finals at the 2022 World Cup, a historic achievement that reignited belief across the continent.
“What Morocco did showed everyone that it can be done,” Bony said. “That wasn’t luck — it was organization, belief and quality.”
According to the former Ivory Coast international, the next step is consistency across tournaments.
“Africa has the talent,” he concluded. “Now it’s time to turn that talent into history.”
Bony’s comments echo a growing confidence across African football that the long-awaited World Cup triumph may no longer be a distant dream.
